Former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, has come to the defence of Enoch Adeboye, saying the respected cleric should not be blamed for Nigeria’s deepening economic and security challenges.
In a statement shared on X on Thursday, Ezekwesili argued that while Nigerians have legitimate reasons to be frustrated by the country’s worsening conditions, directing their anger at Adeboye amounts to focusing on the wrong target.
She acknowledged that years of corruption, insecurity, poor governance and broken promises have left many citizens disillusioned and distrustful of both political leaders and influential public figures.
According to her, the widespread frustration has also increased expectations that religious leaders should take a more active role in holding public office holders accountable for their actions.
However, she maintained that Adeboye has consistently demonstrated concern for the nation’s wellbeing through his prayers, public interventions and commitment to peace.
Ezekwesili described the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God as a humble servant of God whose life and ministry have been devoted to national progress and spiritual guidance.
She also warned against what she called Nigeria’s recurring tendency to become distracted by peripheral issues while fundamental challenges confronting the country remain unresolved.
Defending Adeboye’s disposition in the face of criticism, Ezekwesili said the cleric has often responded to attacks with restraint and dignity.
“Rooted in scriptural and spiritual wisdom, Pastor E.A. Adeboye — like a true bearer of the Cross of Christ — has often chosen dignified silence whenever attacked. Through the years, I learned from him to do the same,” she wrote.
“But this moment demands a historical clarity that we must not miss. I must therefore write publicly to help bring us back to what truly matters and to the urgency of this moment.”
The former minister said it was important to understand the broader context behind the recent criticism of public figures across the country.
“In doing so, it is crucial to first acknowledge the broader context in which criticisms of public figures have erupted in our beleaguered country.
“Nigerians are exhausted. Decades of systemic corruption, insecurity, economic hardship, and unfulfilled promises have produced a deep well of frustration.
“That frustration has evolved into trenchant distrust — not only of politicians, but of institutions and influential individuals whom the people believe possess the moral authority to demand accountability from those in power,” she stated.
Ezekwesili noted that many Nigerians increasingly believe religious leaders should play a greater role in challenging what she described as ineffective and self-serving political leadership.
“Across Nigeria today, the cry is simple: Our religious leaders must rise and help rescue Nigeria from the grip of ineffectual, corrupt, and selfish politicians.
“This is the crux of the matter. Nothing else,” she added.
Her remarks come amid growing public debate over the role of religious leaders in national affairs and increasing calls for influential clerics to speak more forcefully on governance, accountability and the country’s socio-economic challenges.
